The ASCEND Program for 8th grade students piloted in the Spring of 2023 and will now serve all 8th graders in our District. Each student will participate in four industry tours on-site with a partner organization like Genesis Healthcare, Nucor Steel, Sonoco Products Company, and more. Students get the opportunity to see first hand what organizations make up Darlington County and the many future career opportunities they will have. Visits include active learning activities and lunch!

Shannon Flowers, Ph.D., is the Business Engagement Coordinator for Darlington County School District. In this role, she serves as a liaison between the business community and the school district, opening doors for work-based learning opportunities for students. She coordinates the District’s Key to Career Program and ASCEND program. Both programs seek to strengthen businesses, the local workforce, and communities, through internships, career awareness activities, and relationship-building. Shannon works closely with community leaders and helps facilitate the relationship between Darlington County School Board and the Darlington County Economic Development Progress Board. Shannon is also the point of contact for any organization seeking an audience with our students or administrators in regards to career development and/or mentorship. 

Are you an organization interested in visiting or presenting in our schools? Click HERE!